8 to 15 The World is Smaller Than You Think

by Tom Mercer

On the average, each of us has 8 to 15 people, whom God has supernaturally and strategically placed in our relational world so that He might use us to show them His love. The Greeks used one word to describe this personal world-oikos. This book is not about programs or events, but a new way to view the world around us. The oikos principle is one that Jesus designed, modeled and taught, for one purpose, to change the world-a world that might just be smaller than you think!

Genres: Discipleship, Faith, Christian

152 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2011

Reviews

[Jeff Snodgrass · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was fantastic. It helps give you perspective to the impact you CAN have instead of what you are always striving for. We were placed in this world to have an impact. That is why the world is always looking for influence. But often times we look behind our initial circles that God has placed around us.

[Richard Klueg · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a "silver bullet" book. "Focus on this one thing and y0ur church will grow like mine did." I am glad that the "oikos principle" described worked for the author and his church, and there are certainly some helpful points made. The author comes across as pleasant and sincere, and he has a lot of good stories which make the book an easy read. My concern is that the value of the book is compromised by the oversell.

One other concern (and this is a problem that comes up a lot in church growth books): Sound biblical doctrine is assumed, and we are challenged to be united in the truths that are essential and to not be divisive on secondary issues. That is all well and good until we actually have to decide what is essential and what is secondary, so it is a bit more difficult than we are led to think. And anyway, sound biblical doctrine can hardly be assumed in 21st Century American churches.

[Jordan Brown · Rating 3 out of 5]

My pastor gave me this book to read as our church doing a yearlong series on “reaching out.” The average person has 8 to 15 people that they have a relationship with and see on a regular basis. Discussing your faith within these groups is how Jesus modeled the church to witness to others. This book is very practical and a great guide for making new disciples. I’m giving it 3 stars only because of the trite comments and cheesy stories that I found kind of annoying.

Favorite quote:

“Believe me, people are generally more needy and lonely than ever...people have never been hungrier for relationships or more afraid of them.”

[Larry Craddick · Rating 5 out of 5]

Change you focus, change your world.

I’m reading this as a book club book and our book club is just part of my Oikos. It’s a great reminder that God’s called us to be a partner in the Cause for heavenly redemption. To Love God with all your heart, mind, and soul, and to Love Others Like Christ.

[Becky Cochrane · Rating 5 out of 5]

made me really think.

Every believer should read this book. It answers the question, "Why Am I Here" in a compelling way. I am personally challenged and will reread this book in a year.

[Lauralyn Vasquez · Rating 4 out of 5]

Connecting with others takes initiative and intention. Just do it!

[John McPhee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Simple but profound

I recommend this book to all who are frustrated by the failure of the church to reach the rest of the community. It seems simple....but I think it could be revolutionary that God wants us to concentrate on the 8-15 people we know already!

[Eddie Hinkle · Rating 5 out of 5]

An absolute essential read!! This hits the core fundamental concept that many Christians and churches across the United States are missing but desperately need to know.

[Kelly Walker · Rating 5 out of 5]

It makes so much sense! Worth the read and won't take long. Simple doesn't always mean easy, but worth it for the Kingdom of God.